On September 9, 2023, Andrzej Jasinski, the Carlisle child kidnapper, trespassed on a property on Thomson Street in the city, assaulted a grandfather, and absconded with his granddaughter.
The grandfather attempted to pursue but felt excessively nauseous following the assault. He vociferated for assistance from anyone in proximity.
Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamson heard the disturbance and promptly conducted a search of the vicinity, locating the toddler on Howe Street.
The toddler was quickly reunited with her grandfather, with no injuries caused to her.
Two locals of Carlisle, Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamson, have been acknowledged for their valour in reuniting a toddler with her family after a harrowing kidnapping.
British individuals Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamson were recognised as silver award recipients at the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s (NPCC) annual Police Public Bravery Awards on Thursday evening.
Police officers located the culprit, Andrzej Jasinski, and arrested him. A court later heard that he claimed that he knew Vladimir Putin and had his DNA in his house, and he made repeated references to Jihad and said he was a king in Poland.
In February 2024, Andrzej Jasinski was jailed for three years and ten months.
Chief constable Rob Carden, from Cumbria Constabulary, said: “I would like to congratulate both men on their bravery awards.
“Their selfless and brave actions led to a young child being quickly reunited with her family.
“This national recognition is thoroughly deserved and both men should be proud of themselves for what they did in response to a terrifying ordeal for those involved.”
David Allen, Cumbria’s police, fire and crime commissioner, said: “Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamsons quick thinking and brave actions ensured that a local family didn’t have to go through an even more traumatic event. I can only imagine their relief when Curtis and Scott acted as they did.
“I know the family are incredibly grateful to them.
“I spoke with both Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamson at the awards ceremony and listened to their, and others, incredible tales of public bravery. What I heard and the ordinary, brave people I met humbled me.
“It is one thing to be a police officer, trained and expected to run towards danger, it is entirely another thing to act selflessly as a member of the public witnessing something truly awful.
“They represent the best of us in that respect and do our county proud.
“I want to congratulate both men, thank you Curtis Goddard and Scott Williamson – these awards were highly deserved. I am proud to have met you.”
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.